Audi A8 L Security

Audi has launched the most exclusive version of its A8 L flagship limo, an armour-plated high-security vehicle that can withstand bullets, hand grenades, explosives and toxic gases.

The A8 L Security is built around the brand’s trademark Audi Space Frame (ASF), but the components specific to this version are made by hand in a secure production zone.

According to the company, it takes specially trained workers about 450 hours to fit them, before the body is sent back to the plant for final assembly.

The result is that the vehicle has been officially certified by the German Ballistics Testing Centre, and it complies with the requirements of the class VR 7 ballistic protection standard in accordance with the BRV (Bullet Resistant Vehicles) 2009 guideline.

According to Audi, Class VR 7 imposes the strictest criteria on civilian high-security sedans: the body panels and glazing of the passenger cell must withstand firing with NATO sub-calibre ammunition.

The passenger cell derives its vault-like security thanks to the use of materials such as heat-formed armour steel, aramide fabric, a special aluminium alloy, and multi-laminated glass.

The aluminium side sills incorporate massive ballistic-proof profiles that afford increased protection against explosive weapons – an area in which the requirements have become considerably tougher in recent years. The armour-plated vehicle floor is made from a special aluminium alloy for the same reason.

Audi claims the A8 L Security can also withstand attack by military hand grenades. Even an explosive charge, as specified in the test program, allegedly does not pose a lethal threat to passengers, as demonstrated by tests involving dummies.

For the front and rear windscreens and side windows Audi uses special glass with a splinter-inhibiting polycarbonate layer on the inside.

Meanwhile, the communications box in the boot houses the control units for the vehicle and communications electronics, as well as a supplementary battery and elements of the optional components, further increasing passenger protection.

The standard equipment of the new Audi A8 L Security also includes an intercom system that passengers can use to communicate with the outside world with the windows shut. It comprises a loudspeaker in the single-frame grille, along with microphones for the interior and for the vehicle’s surroundings.

Optional features include an emergency exit system, whereby if the driver or rear passenger presses a sealed switch while pulling one of the inside door handles, pyrotechnic fracture bolts in the hinges detach the door from the body so that it can then be opened with a light push.

Meanwhile, the bespoke fire-extinguisher system is supplied through pipes on the underbody from two tanks fitted in the trunk. Nozzles spray it into the wheel arches, onto the underbody and tank, and into the engine compartment.

Occupants are also protected from toxic gases as the emergency fresh-air system operates with two pressurised cartridges housed in the protected zone. At the push of a button it supplies the interior with breathing-quality air through vents – in most cases for long enough to drive through or out of a hazard zone, according to Audi.

Other unique features include selective unlocking of doors, a smoke extractor for the interior, an LED signal system for convoy driving, pennant holder, flashing lights, a siren, a preparation for or installation of analogue and digital radio networks for security authorities and organisations, a built-in phone, an accident data recorder and an additional rear camera.

As per the standard A8 L, the high-security version is offered with a choice of 4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8 and W12 FSI engines. The A8 L Security is now available to order, with deliveries starting in the third quarter of this year.

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